Medicare coverage
Does Medicare Cover a Second Surgical Opinion?
Only in certain cases. In some cases, Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers a second opinion for medically necessary, non-emergency surgery.
Only in certain cases: Part B
Source: Medicare.gov, Second surgical opinions, checked October 23, 2026.
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Coverage at a glance
- Covered?
- Only in certain cases
- Which part
- Part B
- What you pay
- After the Part B deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
- Part B deductible 2026
- $283 a year (CMS). Part B premium $202.90 a month.
- Medicare.gov page
- Second surgical opinions
Description
A second opinion is when another doctor gives their view about your health problem and how it should be treated.
From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.
Coverage details
Medicare also covers a third surgical opinion if the first and second opinions are different.
From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.
Costs
After you meet the Part B deductible:
- You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for a second opinion. The second doctor may ask you to get additional tests as a result of the visit. Medicare will cover these tests, just as it covers other services that are medically necessary.
- You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for a third opinion if the second opinion is different from the first opinion.
From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.
Related pages
- Does Medicare Cover Doctor Visits?
Yes
- Does Medicare Cover Telehealth?
Only in certain cases
- Does Medicare Cover E-Visits?
Yes
- Does Medicare Cover Virtual Check-Ins?
Only in certain cases
- Does Medicare Cover Concierge Medicine?
No
- Does Medicare Cover Federally Qualified Health Center Services?
Yes
- Medicare Part B deductible 2027
- Part D out-of-pocket max 2027
- Dual eligible: Medicare and Medicaid together
- 2027 Medicare plans by county
- Everything Medicare covers, A to Z
Questions
Does Medicare Cover a Second Surgical Opinion?
Only in certain cases. In some cases, Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers a second opinion for medically necessary, non-emergency surgery.
Which part of Medicare covers a Second Surgical Opinion?
Medicare.gov lists Second surgical opinions under Part B.
How much do you pay for a Second Surgical Opinion with Medicare?
Per Medicare.gov: After the Part B deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
Does a Medicare Advantage plan cover a Second Surgical Opinion?
Medicare Advantage plans must cover what Original Medicare covers and some offer extra benefits. Check the plan's Evidence of Coverage. Rivvi does not recommend plans.
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Does Medicare Cover a Second Surgical Opinion?
Only in certain cases. In some cases, Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers a second opinion for medically necessary, non-emergency surgery.
Checked against Medicare.gov 2026-10-23. Source: Rivvi